Anelosimus jabaquara is a species of spider found in subtropical, humid, lowland forests in Brazil.

These spiders cooperate to spin and repair the colonial web, capture prey, and care for the brood.

The spiderlings leave the egg sac in their second instar, however the protective behavior of the female remains.

[1] Anelosimus jabaquara reproduction begins in December, and the brood develops from April to October through the care of the females.

Females guarding their egg sacs move very little and therefore no new silk threads are added to the web during this period.

It is hypothesized that the aggressiveness towards other females is used as a means to protect the egg sac or brood from cannibalism.

The smaller females join by biting the appendages or releasing silk threads over the prey.

Some subadult females found new colonies following solitary dispersal, while others remain in their natal nests.

It is argued that emigration is a consequence of a strong selection pressure to maximize food availability before the egg-laying season.

Because emigration requires high-energy expenditure, it is hypothesized that smaller females do not disperse because they are unable to do so successfully.

[1] Anelosimus jabaquara colonies are composed of individuals of the same instar or differing by one molt, except during the overlap of maternal and filial generations.

Above the sheet is an area made up of leaves surrounded by loosely spun non-adhesive silk threads, called "the retreat".